What does Ceri mean and where does it come from?
Ceri is a Welsh name often used in Wales and among Welsh communities. It has become more popular outside of Wales in recent years. It may also be associated with the Greek name 'Keri', which is derived from the Greek word for 'pure'. The name is sometimes spelled as 'Keri'. Notable people with this
Cultural significance
Ceri has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Wales-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to love.
Peak popularity
Reached #6292 in 1952 — currently #1154 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Wales-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ceri?
Ceri works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ceri Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ceri Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ceri Claire
French influence · crisp
Ceri Jane
Literary · strong
Ceri Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ceri right now?
Holding steady — currently #1154 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1154 | 1,046 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1159 | 1,026 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1164 | 996 | ▲ up 9952 · +19820% births |
| 1985 | #11116 | 5 | ▼ down 4029 |
| 1965 | #7087 | 5 | — |
The story of Ceri
Ceri entered American naming records in 1952 and has been in use for over 72 years. With 78 total births recorded, Ceri remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7087 in 1965 to #1154 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Ceri in 1952:
Ceri by decade
Ceri peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 16 | |
| 1980s ★ | 23 | |
| 1990s | 10 | |
| 2000s | 8 | |
| 2010s | 5 | |
💎Ceri has only 78 total recorded births since 1952 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Ceri?
What names sound and feel like Ceri?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ceri also consider these
Common questions about the name Ceri
What does the name Ceri mean?
Ceri means "to love" — a name rooted in Wales tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Ceri?
Ceri is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ceri?
Ceri originates from Wales tradition. Wales names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ceri a common or rare name?
Ceri is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Ceri?
Studies on name perception suggest that Ceri is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.